St James' Church, High Melton

St James' Church is a medieval parish building in High Melton with a perpendicular tower featuring diagonal buttresses, a two-bay nave, and a continuous south aisle made of limestone with slate roofs. The structure displays typical features of the Perpendicular period in its design.

The building was constructed in 1153 by Avice-de-Tania and was originally named the Church of All Saints until its name changed during Richard II's reign. The renaming occurred between 1377 and 1400 and marks an important period in the location's history.

The church displays medieval stained glass windows with 14th-century figures and 18th-century heraldic designs that come from Peckitt of York. These glass works shape how light fills the interior space.

The building opens for Sunday morning worship services and is managed jointly with St Peter's Barnburgh in the Diocese of Sheffield. Visitors should plan their visit around typical church opening hours when the building is accessible.

The interior contains a rood screen with gallery and crucifix designed by Sir Ninian Comper between 1905 and 1907. Additionally, memorials honoring the Fountayne family are present, reflecting local connections to the place.